How Frequently Should You Wash Your Hair? Expert Advice Is Here

Having mixed feelings about hair wash day is common, whether it’s due to lacking energy or the anticipation of achieving the perfect blow dry. Despite the mixed sentiments, washing your hair is crucial for maintaining both hair and scalp health.

However, it’s essential to consider if you might be washing your hair either too frequently or not enough. Finding the right balance is key, and experts like Gwenda Harmon from Power Your Curls and Eva Proudman, a resident trichologist at Absolute Collagen, offer valuable tips to help you achieve optimal hair and scalp care.

How frequently should you cleanse your hair?

It is recommended by Proudman to wash your hair every day or every other day to maintain a clean and balanced scalp, as the scalp is skin and requires similar care to the face.

If you have an oily scalp, Proudman suggests using shampoos with active ingredients like tea tree or salicylic acid to manage sebum production. She also advises against using heavy products with added oils or silicones that can weigh down oily hair.

Does your hair type influence how frequently you should wash your hair?

Harmon emphasizes the impact of your hair type on washing frequency. She clarifies that curly hair, being naturally drier, requires less frequent washing. In contrast, straight hair that tends to get oily quickly may need more frequent washing to maintain freshness.

Dealing with Dry Hair

Experts recommend cutting back on washing your hair if it tends to be dry. Washing it only 1-2 times a week helps retain the natural oils produced by your scalp, essential for keeping your hair soft and strong.

When it comes to selecting a shampoo for dry hair, look for moisturizing options containing ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, or glycerin. These components aid in maintaining hair hydration and locking in moisture.

Opt for lightweight shampoos with clarifying ingredients like tea tree oil or salicylic acid to manage oiliness without weighing down your hair.

Exploring the Advantages of Hair Washing

Contrary to the popular ‘hair training’ trend advocating infrequent hair washing for better scalp and hair health, experts emphasize the benefits of regular hair washing.

Besides ensuring cleanliness, washing your hair also nurtures a healthy scalp. Harmon explains, “Shampoo effectively removes oils, dirt, and residual hair products.”

Proudman adds, “Procrastinating hair washing allows oils and sweat to accumulate on your scalp over time.”

While natural oils are beneficial, excessive oil buildup on hair strands can result in a greasy appearance and trap dirt, leading to potential hair damage. Additionally, infrequent hair washing is associated with dandruff, as it can foster the growth of Malassezia, a specific type of yeast, and cause issues like itching and flakiness.

A recent study conducted in 2021 highlighted optimal scalp health benefits from washing hair around 5 to 6 times per week.

Is it Effective to Use Dry Shampoo to Postpone Hair Washes?

Many people appreciate the convenience of dry shampoo for saving time in the morning or getting some extra minutes of sleep. However, according to Proudman, using dry shampoo to delay hair washing for just one day is acceptable if you have a hectic schedule. Still, relying on it for multiple consecutive days is not recommended.

Using dry shampoo repeatedly can lead to a buildup on the scalp, potentially causing irritation. Proudman advises that for individuals with long hair, styling it up can help prolong the time between washes. On the other hand, short hair may require more frequent washing and maintenance to preserve its style and shape.

Key Points to Remember

It is recommended to cleanse your hair daily or every other day, but if you have very dry hair, washing it 1-2 times a week may be sufficient.

Opt for a shampoo specifically designed for your hair type to ensure that you are not only washing it frequently but also using the right formula. Use dry shampoo as a quick fix, but be cautious not to overapply as it could lead to build-up and potential skin issues.